SCORCHER: Seven things to do to keep cool in a heatwave

Dan Hayes

If you believe the weather forecasts, next week is going to see the hottest days of the summer so far.

With temperatures set to be in the 30s by early next week people are already looking forward to our region seeing weather to rival many Mediterranean holiday destinations.

However, as well as being fun, the sweltering weather can also mean sticky and uncomfortable conditions so we thought we’d produce some tips for keeping cool in the warm weather to come.

1. Get air conditioning fitted

The Homer Simpson solution. Why get hot and sweaty when you can have cold air blasted directly into your face.

Although judging by the dodgy air conditioning in our office, this is not a foolproof solution.

2. Go to the beach

Living in the Midlands can make it difficult to get to the beach quickly and easily.

But in just a couple of hours you can get to the beautiful East Coast beaches in places like Skegness and take a refreshing dip in the bracing North Sea.

3. Find a lido

There are far fewer of these than these used to be but they can still be found if you know where to look.

Derbyshire has one of the best in the country at Hathersage which boasts stunning views of the peak district and a bit further afield Hood Park Leisure Centre in Leicestershire holds fun sessions with rafts and floats on weekdays during the school holidays.

4. Ice-cream

The East Midlands is blessed with lots of amazing ice-cream places, from Frederick’s in Chesterfield’s to Thaymar’s near Worksop.

However, if you can’t get to one of these, most corner shops sell ice-pops which you can either eat or strap to your head if you prefer.

5. Beer garden

The fact that I think there is nothing better than sitting in a pub beer garden on a hot summer’s day probably tells you more about me than anything else - but I have a feeling I am not alone.

Whether its a beautiful country pub in the Peak District or a swanky city bar in Nottingham - they’re all good as long as they have place to sit and beer on tap.

6. Stay in the shade

There are an abundance of parks and forests in the East Midlands which provide natural shade perfect for enjoying the outdoors but out of the sun.

Sherwood Pines in Nottingamshire is one of the best forests in the region but even smaller parks such as Chesterfield’s iconic Queen’s Park have lots of lovely shaded areas you can enjoy.

7. Buy a fan

For those of you that will be stuck in an office without air conditioning next week, this might be the only ‘solution’ to your personal heat hell.

But whether you choose a mini personal fan or a super-dooper Dyson effort, you’ll still be the one stuck in the office while everyone you know is outside having fun.

But seriously, as well as having fun, try to keep yourself safe in the sun by being sensible.

And keep an eye out for older people in your community who can be especially at risk when temperatures rise.